NORTH PORT — Parking improvements are underway near Anna Maria Oyster Bar restaurant in North Port.
The eatery at 14132 S. Tamiami Trail is next to North Port Moose Lodge 764. Parking in the area frequently fills up.
According to city officials, a new parking improvement project along the U.S. 41 south access road between Bolander Terrace and North Port Boulevard, near the Anna Maria Oyster Bar, has commenced.
Officials said the project will add 49 angled parking spots.
They will be constructed with pervious concrete, providing additional parking for the area while helping minimize stormwater impacts.
Officials said the improvements will also include new crosswalks and minor improvements to sidewalks and landscaping.
Construction started Monday.
There is a 180-day contract duration, and completion is slated for Feb. 27, 2027.
The first phase of the project is funded by surtax funds.
While work is happening, the north side of the U.S. 41 access road will be a construction zone.
People are being asked to avoid parking along the north side of the access road throughout the project zone to help keep the construction area safe and allow crews to work.
Businesses in the area have been informed about the work, including improvement details and the construction schedule.
Commissioners discussed improving parking in the area in May, 2025.
Public Works staff, then, said the area being busy is leading people to parking on roadside swales, which has been damaging them.
Issues regarding Blue Tequila and Sharks Fish House, on the other, northbound side of Tamiami Trail, see their parking lots fill up frequently as well.
Dining and Cooking